Dreamy white sand beaches, secluded campsites that require an isolated hike, and cabins that are steps from the bay. T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park makes other state parks seem lackluster. The official name of the park is a mouthful to say, but the views you’ll find are jaw-dropping. Experts have called it America’s Best State Park, yet it’s missing crowds. I think it’s a Florida Panhandle state park that’s easily missed because it’s almost secretive.
T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is part of Gulf County, Florida, and is closest to the city of Cape San Blas. The park is situated on the St. Joseph Peninsula which offers the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the St. Joseph Bay on the other. It’s a wildlife haven, perfect for beach lovers, and I’ve never seen so many seashells bigger than my hands just waiting to be discovered. It’s a state park that’s easy to fall in love with, but above all, it’s a cheap way to vacation in the Florida Panhandle.
Beaches at T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
The park stretches 20 miles into the Gulf and has 10 miles of sugar-white sand beaches. According to the Park Rangers, the powdery quartz sands were made millions of years ago from rock from the Appalachian Mountains that wore down and flowed into rivers to the Gulf of Mexico. When I walked along the beach, I could hear a squeak from every step because the sand was so fine. It’s also a great reminder that you’re so isolated, Mother Nature’s sounds are present. The park is a great spot for connecting with nature.
I love that the beaches are free of high-rise structures, leaving you with pristine views of turquoise water. Peaceful swimming, shelling, sunbathing, and snorkeling are favorite activities among guests. Beachgoers who want some exercise can walk the 8 miles to the tip of the peninsula.
The other beaches are located on the St. Joseph Bay side. Shallow bay water, sand bars, and nearby seagrass beds full of sea life make this the perfect place to explore. I’m not an adventurous kayaker, but the clear shallow water makes it easy to enjoy for beginners. The bay side is perfect for families that need the comfort of shallow calm water.
Purchase a single-use day pass admission online, for $5 – $10 (depending on the number of occupants in your vehicle) ahead of your visit. Just bring your confirmation email with you to the park and enjoy a day of leisurely beach time.
Sunsets That Look Like A Painting
If someone is familiar with T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph State Park, chances are they’ll talk about the famous sunsets. It’s one of the park’s biggest highlights and the perfect way to cap off a day at the beach. Witness the breathtaking sunsets, over the Gulf of Mexico, directly on the park’s beaches. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted in vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a memorable and picturesque experience for visitors.
Florida’s Best Birding & Hiking Trails Are At The Park
T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park has more than 240 species of birds hanging out on park property, in different seasons. My recommendation is to enjoy the park’s birding by taking a hike. The park includes three hiking trails: The Maritime Hammock Nature Trail (a half-mile scenic walk), The Bayview Trail (1.6 miles through pine flatwoods) and there are six miles of hiking trails in the park’s Wilderness Preserve area.
The park is an excellent location to bird-watch and you’re sure to see some birds along your hike. Numerous species of wading birds, shorebirds, migratory birds, and birds of prey can be spotted during their migration months. The beach is a crucial nesting site for native Florida birds like the Snowy Plover. Check the park’s event calendar for ranger-guided hikes if you want assistance spotting the majestic creatures.
Pro Tip: A Wilderness Permit is required for access to the Wilderness Preserve and can be obtained at the Ranger Station. It will give you access to six more miles of trail. The area is truly remote, with strenuous hikes on the sand, but it’s your best bet to catch a bald eagle soaring overhead.
The park has an official policy of never spraying for insect control, so be sure to wear bug repellant for a comfortable hike.
Fishing At T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Photo Credit: Gulf County Tourist Development Council
A day pass includes a variety of saltwater fishing options. The park is home to the only public boat launch in the Cape San Blas area, with bay access. Find the richest fishing habitat in the Florida Panhandle. Anglers can find seatrout, redfish or red drum, and flounder to name a few. The park is very popular for boaters during scallop season, which runs from late summer to early fall. I love the idea of catching your scallops, in the shallow bay and cooking them over an open fire for dinner at your campsite. I can’t think of a more authentic Florida experience than that!
On the gulf side, surf fishing is the most popular. Anglers can cast a line into the surf. Relax on the beach and wait for your pole tip, which is a tell-tale sign that a fish is on the line. Popular species you can fish for in the surf include pompano, shark, whiting, and redfish.
Budget-Friendly State Park Lodging Options That Feel Pricey
Forget the expensive vacation home rental and consider overnight stays at T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. They’ve got several options that range from primitive campsites to cabins that offer the comforts of home with the bay just steps away. There are even some in-between options if you’re not ready for primitive camping but still want a similar experience. The park does a great job ensuring guests can have an overnight stay that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the beach. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.
- The Cabins: 8 exclusive air-conditioned cabins sleep up to six guests. Enjoy a stocked kitchen to use, a bedroom loft, a fireplace, and a screen porch that overlooks the bay. These cabins book quickly. They’re a hidden gem that’s a fraction of the cost of vacation homes in the area.
- Primitive Camping: Access to the primitive campsites are not available by vehicle. Guests must hike (up to six miles) or kayak to their reserved campsite. Each site is equipped with a fire ring and accommodates up to four people. I recommend campsite #14 for the most amazing panoramic beach views from the top of the nearby dunes. It’s worth the hike!
- Camping: The Shady Pines Campground features 36 standard-facility campsites and 10 tent-only campsites. There are two bathhouses. If you’re looking for a camping experience that offers a bit more comfort, consider booking site #13 or #17. They include a screened platform with a ceiling fan, light, and electricity.